Neighbors vent about transit buses in Gubser

Some neighbors on Stone Hedge Drive are concerned buses have caused cracks in the road in the past and will again in the near future. (Photo courtesy Melinda Oliver)

By CRAIG MURPHYOf the Keizertimes

The Salem-Keizer Transit bus doesn’t stop on Stone Hedge Drive.

But residents in the Gubser neighborhood are still upset at how the situation unfolded, airing grievances during the Sept. 19 Greater Gubser Neighborhood Association meeting at Gubser Elementary School.

About three dozen neighbors – a far bigger attendance than usual – came to the meeting, many asking questions about the bus service that was added back to the Gubser area earlier this month for the first time since 2009.

GGNA president Brad Coy, who recently joined the Salem-Keizer Transit Board, noted he was appointed to the board a week after the issue arose.

“It is an ongoing process,” said Coy, who encouraged constructive comments. “Feedback from tonight will be put into consideration.”

Residents offered plenty of feedback.

Sharon Marsoun was among those noting how busy Stone Hedge often is.

“My concern is safety,” she said. “The buses are going down the street with the most foot and vehicular traffic. It’s very congested. You’re putting the most people at the most risk at the worst time.”

Melinda Oliver was among those making a similar point.

“There are better routes than Stone Hedge, because of the overusage with the school,” she said. “Maybe the bus could continue down McLeod and do a loop?”

Though transit officials spoke at a Gubser meeting in the spring, only a handful of people attended that meeting. One of the most common complaints from residents was not knowing about the change.

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